Hotel Location

Landmarks

Officially designated as the arts and crafts capital of Kentucky, Berea is a favorite shopping destination for those looking for handmade Kentucky items. Located in Madison County just south of Lexington on I-75, Berea is situated between the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains and the Bluegrass plains. Berea is unique in having cultural assets in several distinct clusters within the city boundaries, including College Square, the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, Old Town Artisan Village and Chestnut Street.
The community’s history is intertwined with that of Berea College, founded in 1855 by an abolitionist minister as a model for educating men and women of all races. After 1904 the college largely served Appalachian students, charging no tuition and requiring all students to work in a college industry. Fireside Industries, Berea’s student craft business, began in 1883. Thus began Berea’s reputation as a center of craft tradition and production. Today, through Student Craft Industries, over 200 students and craft professionals in the community produce weaving, woodcraft, needlecraft, ceramics, broomcraft and wrought iron products that are marketed internationally. Berea is also home to the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen.

Richmond is a growing, vibrant city centrally located in the heart of Kentucky. Richmond was founded in 1798 by Colonel John Miller a Revolutionary War Soldier. Richmond is seeing a period of rapid growth. During the 1990’s the population grew at such a rapid rate, Richmond was designated as the fastest growing city in Kentucky.

Blue Grass Army Depot (BGAD) is an ammunition depot and the primary
Southeast Regional Distribution
Point for all Department of Defense
(DOD) munitions. BGAD’s prime
mission is to receive, store, issue,
maintain, renovate and demilitarize
both conventional and non-standard
ammunition for all DOD services.

Horses, history and hooch....and a whole lot more! Add the places you want to visit to your trip planner, or share your ideas with friends.
Listed in National Geographic Traveler's "50 Best Places of a Lifetime", Kentucky's famed Bluegrass Region is not to be missed. Lexington, Horse Capital of the World, is at the heart of this region of rare beauty, but the region is dotted with charming small towns to explore.
Whether your interests are Civil War sites, historic homes, Bourbon distilleries, folk arts and crafts, hiking, bird watching, antiques, horse farms, museums, art galleries or memorable dining, the Bluegrass has a wealth of attractions to discover.

Rupp Arena is conveniently located in the heart of beautiful downtown Lexington, Kentucky. We are host to numerous concerts, family shows, motor sports events and trade shows throughout the year as well as proudly being the home court of the University of Kentucky Men's Basketball team where each year over 400,000 die-hard fans watch the greatest game in sports.

College/University

Berea College is distinctive among institutions of higher learning. Founded in 1855 as the first interracial and coeducational college in the South, Berea charges no tuition and admits only academically promising students, primarily from Appalachia, who have limited economic resources. Berea’s cost of educating a student exceeds $23,000 per year.
Berea offers rigorous undergraduate academic programs leading to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in 28 fields. All students work at least 10 hours per week in campus and service jobs in more than 130 departments.

Eastern Kentucky University is a regional, coeducational, public institution of higher education offering general and liberal arts programs, pre-professional and professional training in education and various other fields at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Located in Richmond, Madison County, Kentucky, Eastern has a distinguished record of more than a century of educational service to the Commonwealth.

The University of Kentucky is a public, land grant university dedicated to improving people's lives through excellence in education, research and creative work, service, and health care. As Kentucky's flagship institution, the University plays a critical leadership role by promoting diversity, inclusion, economic development, and human well-being.

Centre is a top-50 liberal arts college that attracts bright, highly motivated students from around the country. It’s the kind of school that provides extras (leadership training, real-world preparation for career success, a global perspective) that cause our students to lead the nation in loyalty. After graduation they give financial support at a rate higher than those of any other college or university.

Restaurants

Fine dining has brought Boone Tavern much of its international acclaim. Whether you prefer traditional or creative southern cuisine, you will find palate pleasing fare in Boone Tavern’s Dining Room.
Boone Tavern has long been recognized for fine dining. The Duncan Hines Excellence in Hospitality Award was presented to Boone Tavern in 2003. The prestigious award is named for restaurant critic Duncan Hines whose name is still associated with excellence in fine dining and who included Boone Tavern consistently in his travel and restaurant guide books. The Kentucky Tourism Council states, “Boone Tavern has been a hallmark in the hospitality business for nearly a century. After all these years, it continues to be a favorite destination.

The Black Feather Café is passionate about and committed to producing real, simple, local food-from scratch. Whenever possible we source our food from local independent farmers; locally produced seasonal food is not only better for the environment and essential to build a local economy, it just tastes better.
Located in the Old Town Artisan District of Berea, The Black Feather is part of a community where tradition and innovation meet. Our Adams Street address was first a neighborhood café in 1929; we revived this tradition when we opened our doors in May of 2008.

At Hanger’s Restaurant in Richmond, we specialize in more than just food. From succulent, seared sea scallops to the savory Hanger’s steak, our menu is filled with unforgettable entrees. Whether you are in the mood for a romantic rendezvous, a spirited gathering of friends, or looking to sample some of the finest Kentucky locally grown products, Hanger’s is the place to be. From the recipes, to the plating, to the inviting interior, we strive to create a complete experience. We strive to create a memory.

Festivals

In recent decades our region has attracted dozens of quality musicians - both native-Irish and American-born - who have dedicated themselves towards developing an approach to "Celtic" music that might be described as "pure drop". The musicians developed the skills - within their heart and hands - that allow them to readily assimilate their playing into more established musical circles, such as those found in Chicago, St. Louis and in several cities in the East. Vibrant "pure drop" teaching traditions have sprung up in nearby Cincinnati, Asheville, Knoxville and more recently Kansas City.
The Berea Celtic Festival brings together some of the primary carriers of this emerging regionwide scene and presents the music via informal, accessible, collaborative workshops and sessions. In may cases the music will be complimented by skilled dance enthusiasts thus completing the energetic circle that is ceol agus rince - i.e. the music and the dance.

The “Quilts with a Kick” art quilt exhibit by the Kentucky Art Quilters will be displayed at the Berea Arts Council, 116 Main Street, from July 6-August 24. Gallery hours are 10am-4pm Monday through Saturday. Join us for the exhibit reception on Friday August 3 from 6pm-8pm. Also on display, at the Berea College Traylor Galleries, from June 12th to August 4th are selections from Quilt National 2011. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 1pm-5pm.

Boone Tavern Hotel, in Berea, Kentucky, has long been famous for its spoonbread. Richard Hougen, Boone Tavern Hotel manager for many years, collected some of the best regions best recipes, including spoonbread. Most people agree, that you cannot find a better recipe for spoonbread than the one used at Boone Tavern.
Spoonbread is the richest, lightest, and most delicious of all corn meal breads. The basic ingredients in spoonbread are very much the same from one recipe to another, the major difference being that about half of the recipes call for baking powder and / or sugar while the rest use neither.

Discover new work by over 100 artists from across the country. Take part in craft demonstrations, live music and regional entertainment.
Hours: Friday, July 13th: 10 am to 6 pm; Saturday, July 14th: 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday, July 15th: 10 am to 5 pm

The Celebration of Traditional Music strives to represent homemade music passed on from person to person in the Appalachian Region and the musicians who play it. Old time string band music, blues, traditional gospel singing, ballads, and acoustic instruments are featured in a family-friendly atmosphere. Berea College’s students, faculty, and staff welcome the public to enjoy this festival of roots music and dancing on our campus. Bring your instruments, feet, and voices, and enjoy the many jam sessions and opportunities to learn how to sing, play, and dance to this music.

Colonel Harland Sanders, founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, is one of the most highly recognized figures in the world. Laurel County, Kentucky, located in the heart of the beautiful Daniel Boone National Forest, is proud to be the home of the Colonel’s first and original restaurant established in the 1940’s. Lee Cummings, co-founder of Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken, also began his career in 1952 with his uncle, Colonel Sanders, in Laurel County.
The Annual World Chicken Festival is a tribute to this heritage. We invite you to our international celebration the last full weekend of every September, in beautiful downtown London. All the “egg-citement” and entertainment for four fun filled day makes this one of Kentucky’s largest festivals.

Berea Center for the Arts is the newest gallery in "The Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky". The gallery is located in the old movie theater between Old Town and College Square/Berea College Campus right next to the public library.
The gallery is unique in its own respect with small spaces for artists and a long hallway filled with original paintings and other pieces of art by a large number of juried artists. In connection with the gallery there is a small giftshop with greeting cards and original Berea postcards. The old balcony has been turned into an exciting space for live music, poetry reading, lectures, workshops and more.

The Richmond Area Arts Council (RAAC) supports the cultural development of the city of Richmond, KY by advocating for and creating the highest quality artistic and educational opportunities for residents and visitors. An active arts council within the community and region allows for business to flourish and provides a rich cultural environment for citizens.
The RAAC offers many arts activities for children and adults within our community. The RAAC has partnered with the Madison County Schools to expand the Arts Education Program to provide safe and fun-filled class for hundreds of children to participate after school and during the summer. The RAAC has two established choral groups, Madison Singers and Madison Youth Chorus, offers adult education classes and hosts art exhibits featuring local artist.

Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen (KGAC) is a dynamic membership organization comprised of the finest artists, craftsmen, collectors, galleries, interested individuals and businesses in Kentucky and surrounding states. Founded in 1961, it is the oldest organization in Kentucky working to preserve and promote the rich heritage and exciting future of art and craft. The KGAC headquarters is located in Berea, Kentucky, officially designated as the "Art and Craft Capital" of Kentucky.

The Kentucky Artisan Heritage Trails (KAHT) showcases interesting places, exciting events, wonderful food and some of the state's finest artisans. The 18 Google Map Driving Trails are designed to provide an experience rich in local culture and scenic beauty. The Driving Tour Narratives feature the highlights of each driving trail leading the participant on a delightful journey across the state of Kentucky. Kentucky Artisan Heritage Trails is your source for local destinations, recipes, "how-to" projects, tourism tips for traveling through Appalachia, Kentucky, and much more.

In general terms the gallery collection contains a diverse range of hardwood products and furniture, ceramics, glassware, jewelry, decorative folk art, photography/etchings, and hundreds of collectible gift items. Most of these are one-of-a kind.
Wood products are selected for both the quality of craftsmanship and the quality of the wood itself. Almost all our wood products are crafted from the highest grades of native black walnut, cherry and maple lumber to be found in the Appalachian Region.
Wood-Top Drawer offers a range of top-quality, solid-hardwood, traditional Appalachian, Shaker, and early American furniture. Product lines include dining tables and chair sets, rocking chairs, settees, desk and other office furnishings, stand-alone cabinetry and shelving, hickory and seagrass bottomed chairs and benches. If we don't have what you are looking for, we can make arrangements with highly reputable craftsmen and have it custom built for you. We can usually give

We strive to provide the artisans and farmers in developing countries a fair price for their products. You will find
baskets, musical instruments, toys and games, and home decor items. We also carry a wide variety of clothing and
accessories.

Adjacent to the depot with Bybee Pottery, year-round Christmas decorations and a wonderful collection of cornshuck flowers, watercolors by Dinah Tyree, yard art, delicious regional foods and much more. Visit the working studio and see the unique handmade glass of Hot Flash Beads artist Jimmy Lou Jackson, who is nationally known for torch worked beads. You can find her most days at her torch eager to make something special for you.

KY Artists Studios

Our love of making pottery started about 10 years ago at a community art center on the campus of Oregon State University. At the time we never envisioned it would become our livelihood as well. After all, we had gotten our educations in other feilds (Bruce in Horticulture and me in Massage Therapy) and were happily working at our jobs.
Over the years, however, we grew increasingly serious about ceramics, and about a lifestyle that allowed us to work togethor and travel less for work. It took us a long time to work up the courage to start a business of our own, but after recieving an unexpected inheritance, we felt we had to at least try. If it didn't work out, we could go back to the mainstream workplace, right? Well...sort of.

Brothers Doug and Wally step quickly in synchronized movement, taking select cherry slats from a 212° F boiling tank and hand forming each around a jig of their own creation. It's a sunny, humid ninety-degree afternoon, but nothing interrupts their steady, deliberate pace or watchful eye. They are hands-on throughout the entire furniture making process, laboring on a single piece that sometimes can take well over 100 hours.
Since 1986, every piece of furniture crafted at Haley-Daniels Woodworking has begun by carefully matching choice hardwoods to their intended furniture design. The brothers have an innate understanding of the woods they work with and talent for highlighting the rich grain and color characteristics.

One of my favorite beading techniques is to take a stone or bone cabochon and then create a setting for it using seed beads. For this pendant, I combined a beautiful carved face of bone and a long leopardskin jasper oval to form the body, creating an Earth Goddess.

Stephen Hosfeld learned the art of lapidary from his grandfather. Through the decades he has refined the trade into a simple elegance that underlies the beauty of the stones. His work graces countless private collections as well as corporate firms such as Tiffany’s. Hosfeld’s expert craftmanship is best exemplified in his specialty: the rare Red and Black Banded Kentucky Agate.
Most days will see Hosfeld at work in his studio, located in the Old Town arts district of Berea, Kentucky. His dog Dusty will most likely be there as well.

May is a nationally acclaimed craftsman. His traditional concepts in the woodworking process – dovetailed drawers, classical joinery and clean design are all used in the creation of his handmade furniture

When Neil and Mary first started to dream of owning their own business back in 1977, they were living in an Applachian hovel with 28 leaks in the roof, a wood stove to cook on and a coal stove to heat it with in the winter. One winter day, the wood pile ran out, the coal pile ran out, and so did the money. Mary looked up the word "Bottom" in her Great Grandfather's dictionary, dated 1894, to see where they were, and found that being at the bottom isn't all bad. Hence the name,
Weaver's Bottom Craft Studio.

Battlefields

In Maj. Gen. Kirby Smith’s 1862 Confederate offensive into Kentucky, Brig. Gen. Patrick R. Cleburne led the advance with Col. John S. Scott’s cavalry out in front. The Rebel cavalry, while moving north from Big Hill on the road to Richmond, Kentucky, on August 29, encountered Union troopers and began skirmishing. After noon, Union artillery and infantry joined the fray, forcing the Confederate cavalry to retreat to Big Hill. At that time, Brig. Gen. Mahlon D. Manson, who commanded Union forces in the area, ordered a brigade to march to Rogersville, toward the Rebels. Fighting for the day stopped after pursuing Union forces briefly skirmished with Cleburne’s men in late afternoon. That night, Manson informed his superior, Maj. Gen. William Nelson, of his situation, and he ordered another brigade to be ready to march in support, when required. Kirby Smith ordered Cleburne to attack in the morning and promised to hurry reinforcements (Churchill’s division). Cleburne started early, marching north, passed through Kinston, dispersed Union skirmishers, and approached Manson’s battle line near Zion Church. As the day progressed, additional troops joined both sides. Following an artillery duel, the battle began, and after a concerted Rebel attack on the Union right, the Yankees gave way. Retreating into Rogersville, the Yankees made another futile stand at their old bivouac. By now, Smith and Nelson had arrived and taken command of their respective armies. Nelson rallied some troops in the cemetery outside Richmond, but they were routed. Nelson and some men escaped but the Rebels captured approximately 4,000 Yankees. The way north was open.

Fort Boonesborough has been reconstructed as a working fort complete with cabins, blockhouses and furnishings. Resident artisans perform craft demonstrations and give modern-day visitors a true sense of what life was like for pioneers in Kentucky.

CAMP NELSON PROVIDED THE UNION ARMY WITH over 10,000 African-American soldiers, making it the third largest recruiting and training depot for African Americans in the nation. Many of the black soldiers brought their families with them to Camp Nelson and eventually the army established a refugee camp for these individuals. Thousands of African-Americans came to Camp Nelson and it was here that they gained their freedom. In addition to the African-Americans, several regiments of white troops from Kentucky and Tennessee were formed at Camp Nelson and many others from the Midwest and New England spent a good deal of time at the Bluegrass base.

The Battle of Perryville was the largest Civil War battle in Kentucky. More than 7,600 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing. Each year Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site commemorates the battle with re-enactments, living history programs, battlefield tours, authors and book signings, period entertainment, vendors and more.

The Civil War lasted barely a month for Private Lewis McFerren of the Union Army. He died on the morning of October 21, 1861, less than twenty minutes into his first battle. He was one of 15 men listed as killed in the fight at Camp Wildcat, the first engagement of regular troops in Kentucky.
Camp Wildcat wasn't one of the great battles of the Civil War. Yet, for the inexperienced soldiers who faced fire for the first time it might as well have been Gettysburg.
Camp Wildcat is in Laurel County, Kentucky on Wildcat Mountain. The site is undeveloped and remote, reached by a narrow gravel road. The site has a pavilion with interpretive signs, parking area, trails, and vault toilets.

The site of the Battle of Blue Licks enshrines the memory of the men who died in one of the worst military defeats of the American Revolution.
The Battle of Blue Licks has the combined drama of frontier warfare and the Revolutionary War. On August 19, 1782, nearly seventy Kentuckians died in what some historians have called the “Last Battle of the American Revolution.” While that claim is debatable, the struggle at Blue Licks embodies the conflict between the American Indian, Kentucky settlers, and the British Crown.

History

General Cassius Marcellus Clay was a 19th century emancipationist, politician, newspaper publisher, and Minister to Russia under Abraham Lincoln’s administration. Born on October 19, 1810 to General Green and Sally Lewis Clay, Cassius M. Clay was raised in a slaveholding home, but from an early age felt that slavery was not right. After attending college at Yale University and hearing the famous abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison speak, Cassius vowed to fight against slavery. Much of Clay’s anti-slavery work was centered politically, and did not earn him many friends in his pro-slavery hometown.
At a speaking engagement Clay met Abraham Lincoln. The two became friends afterwards and Cassius M. Clay campaigned for Lincoln in the 1860 election. After Lincoln was elected President, he made Cassius M. Clay his Minister to Russia, a post that Clay served two terms in from 1861-1869. After his return from Russia, the cause that Clay had fought so hard for was achieved,

Henry Clay was “The Great Compromiser.” As a statesman for the Union, his skills of negotiation and compromise proved invaluable in helping to hold the country together for the first half of the 19th century. His compromises quelled regionalism and balanced states rights and national interests. As a result, the Civil War was averted until it could not be avoided and the nation could survive it.
Ashland is a National Historic Landmark and site of profound history. It serves as a place of retreat and comfort for many of its neighbors, the people of Lexington, and thousands of visitors who visit the site each year. Most of all, it is a reminder of the “Promised Land” that Henry Clay and his descendants found here.

Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of the sixteenth president of the United States, was born in Lexington, Kentucky, on December 13, 1818. The fourth of sixteen children, Mary was daughter to one of the town’s wealthier and more prominent men, Robert Smith Todd. A businessman and politician, Todd provided his children from two marriages with the social standing and material advantages Abraham Lincoln lacked in his own youth.
Although a town of less than seven thousand residents in the 1830s, Lexington was compared to Philadelphia and Boston in its wealth and cosmopolitan sophistication. Mary moved in the highest levels of Bluegrass society and acquired an extensive education from Frenchwoman Madame Charlotte Mentelle. At her father’s large home on Main Street, maintained by household slaves, Mary mingled with influential political guests. The most prominent of these was Senator Henry Clay, three-time presidential candidate and leader of the young Whig party. Clay, a family friend, resided less than two miles from the Todds. He once promised young Mary she would be among his first guests in Washington should he become president. Mary Todd’s path to the White House, however, ran in a different course.

The Shakers played an important role in American religious history, developing the longest lasting communal society. Their legacy is found not only in the furniture and buildings that remain at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, but also in their ideals of equality, peace and love.
This legacy is manifested in the tranquility of Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill and in the beauty of the landscape and architecture

“Big Bone Lick is known as the birthplace of American vertebrate paleontology and scientists regularly visit here and make use of the historic items found here,” Walker said. “Meriwether Lewis, William Clark and Thomas Jefferson had roles in the history of this area and items from this site have been studied and distributed around the world.”
Big Bone Lick has its origins steeped in prehistoric events. Ancient creatures like the mammoth, mastodon, ground sloth and bison once roamed through mineral springs and swamps now grassy plains covered with trees and shrubs. The remains of those animals have been the subject of numerous studies, books and research projects.
The salty marsh that attracted these prehistoric visitors sometimes proved to be a fatal attraction. Animals became trapped and perished in what the early pioneers called "jelly ground," leaving skeletons and interesting clues about life in prehistoric Kentucky.

Museums

The W. G. Burroughs Geology Museum contains over 2,200 catalogued specimens in the museum inventory. These specimens are arranged into displays of minerals, rocks, gemstones, fossils, and artifacts. To add to the learning experience of visiting the museum, each display has a detailed explanation written out for each sampling.
These displays are designed to explain the importance of oil, coal, iron, gemstones, etc. in the modern world. Included are full-sized dinosaur heads, that are replicas of those in the American museum of Natural History. Also, there are displays of local interests, such as spelunking and mining displays

Kentucky's contribution for American Music...
folk, gospel, bluegrass, jazz, opera, pop, country...
is immeasurable!
The Kentucky Music Hall of Fame & Museum honors Kentucky performers, songwriters, publishers, promoters, managers, broadcasters comedians and other music professionals who have made significant contributions to the music industry in Kentucky and around the world.

The Hummel Planetarium is one of the largest and most sophisticated Planetariums in the United States, especially on a university campus. The Planetarium has seating for 164 people in very comfortable and generously sized seats.
The projection equipment used to simulate the night sky consists of a star ball that measures one meter in diameter and is capable of projecting up to 10,164 stars. Other equipment includes five planet projectors, a sun projector, and two image projectors that are used to project the moon or a variety of other objects both natural and man-made.
When all projectors are operated simultaneously, a sky can be created as seen from any point on earth, anytime during the day or night, up to 100,000 years in the past or future. A special feature of the Space Voyager projection system is its ability to not only show you the sky as seen from earth, but also from any point within 100 astronomical units (9,300,000,000 miles) of the Earth. This makes it possible to

Visitors first get the feeling the Lexington History Museum is a different experience when they enter our entrance on Short Street to be confronted with a skeleton!
"Hanover" was as famous in the late 19th century as Zenyatta and Secretariat are today. Of 50 lifetime starts, he won 32, placed 14, and showed two times, finishing out of the money just twice, with career winnings of almost $119,000 -- a hefty sum in his day. He won the Belmont Stakes by 15 lengths. Retired to stud, he was the leading sire for four consecutive years, 1885-1889. A stall injury in 1889 led to his being put down. He was buried, but disinterred in 1906 for display purposes (his broken leg was repaired). In 1955, Hanover was named to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame. We are proud to have been selected as Hanover's home. We are also proud to have been named Kentucky’s “Outstanding History Museum and Organization for 2006.

The Kentucky Folk Art Center at Morehead State University is one of Kentucky’s special places. Located in the historic Union Grocery, the Center offers much more than a typical museum experience.KFAC houses a permanent collection of nearly 1,400 pieces of self-taught art. Dozens of works from the collection are displayed on a rotating basis in the center’s first floor gallery. Upon viewing folk art for the first time, many are attracted to its whimsical attributes, and we should take joy in these works as the artists intended. But in many instances, the art that you see on the walls at KFAC was born out of hard times. The works displayed here stand as a document of and testament to the concerns, courage, and convictions of the common man.

The KHS history campus includes the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, the Old State Capitol and the Kentucky Military History Museum at the State Arsenal. The headquarters of KHS, the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, was completed in April 1999. This 167,000-square-foot, $29-million facility in downtown Frankfort has welcomed more than a million visitors and earned many awards for excellence.

Music & Entertainment

The independent not-for-profit Berea Arena Theater provides year round quality productions featuring the most professional local and regional talent available. Arena is funded by ticket sales, grants and gifts. The Managing Producer/Artistic Director is Eddie Kennedy.
In addition to the Mainstage Productions, Arena Theater will present special theatrical events that may include “Night at the Improv” (stand-up comedy), “Movie Nights” (silent films, classic comedies and dramas), “Karaoke Night,” “Concerts,” “Showcase,” and “Youth Talent Night” (singers, bands, instrumentalists), “The Gong Show” and “Children’s Theater.” Founding Season Ticket Subscribers will be admitted FREE to all of these extra events.

In Berea, Kentucky, we enjoy live music and many traditional forms of community dance! On the fourth Saturday of every month except December, we hold a contra dance at the Russell Acton Folk Center. On the third Friday of most months we hold a smaller homestyle dance nearby. And we party!!

Renfro Valley first began in the mind and heart of John Lair, in the big city of Chicago in the early 30's. He was there working with an insurance company and began to listen to this new thing called radio.
The station was WLS. He couldn't help but notice a singer by the name of Bradley Kincaid who specialized in the kind of music he, himself, grew up with back in Rockcastle Co. Kentucky. His interest in the stations programming grew until he sought and was given a job in the music library. He was instrumental in bringing a number of singers and musicians from "back home" to the station. Among those was Red Foley from near by Berea. After a time, helping with the station's Saturday night show the National Barn Dance, John began to think of a show of his own. There was only one problem, he was a homesick boy and the only way he could satisfy his love for this new adventure in entertainment, was if he could take it back to Renfro Valley with him. With Foley's help they set out to do just that. They sold another entertainer, Whitey Ford, and Red's brother Cotton, on the idea and "Renfro Valley Folks" were born.

The EKU Center for the Arts is Central Kentucky's premier arts and entertainment venue. Visit Eastern Kentucky University's performing arts center for tickets to the best in live entertainment, theater, and music concerts

WoodSongs is not a concert. It is a live-audience broadcast taping and "musical conversation." Your laughter, applause and enthusiasm will be heard on over 500 radio stations, the American Forces Radio Network in 173 countries, in millions of TV homes across north America on Public Television and by millions more online. We're glad you can join us!

The Norton Center for the Arts is home to Centre College’s annual Norton Center performing arts season of professional touring presentations. It is also the primary venue on campus for music and theatrical productions, lectures and other convocations and live student entertainment. The Norton Center has two venues: the 1,470-seat Newlin Hall, known for its acoustics, and the warm and intimate 367-seat Weisiger Theatre. The Norton Center also boasts a large art collection with many of the works on display in the Grand Foyer and throughout campus.

Founded in 1950 by Col. Eben C. Henson, Pioneer Playhouse is the oldest outdoor theatre in Kentucky and has been called the “Granddaddy” of Kentucky Outdoor Dramas. The Playhouse was also instrumental in pioneering the outdoor theatre movement in the state.

Golf

Semi-private 18-hole, open to public. Bent greens and Bermuda Tees and Fairways. Practice range. Fully stocked pro shop and grill located in restored Civil War tavern. Historical markers throughout the course describe local civil war history.

Designed by Michael Hurdzan in 1993, Gibson Bay Golf Course was recognized as an honorable mention by Golf Digest for best new public golf course in the United States. This 7,100 yard, par 72 course is located along Richmond's 450 acre Lake Reba recreational complex.
With up to five tee boxes on each hole, Gibson Bay Golf Course can accommodate players of all skill levels. All tees, greens, and fairways are seeded with bent grass to provide the best possible playing conditions.
Gibson Bay is a long, open golf course which allows gusts of wind to be a factor in shot-making. A player will not find much trouble off the tee, but wayward tee shots will lead to side-hill lies and an awkward approach shot. Many of the greens are set into hill sides and protected by strategically placed bunkers and mounding.

The Bull at Boone's Trace Golf Club is one of the finest public clubs throughout Central Kentucky, offering its members and the public a challenging course, fun atmosphere, and exceptional service. Come see why The Bull was voted 4 1/2 stars by Golf Digest's "Best Places to Play" and is the most affordable golf for the quality of the course.

Hiking Trails

This trail is a 6.6 mile loop that takes about 3.5 hours to complete while taking time to take in the sights and all the wonderful views that are available on this hike.Five overlooks with striking views of rolling central Kentucky farmland.
From East Pinnacle you can see the roof top of the Pinnacle View Inn.

Fields and wooded areas full of birds, small game, and flowering plants. Marcia Schroder, manager of this 1,690-acre state wildlife area, says fall is her favorite time of year here, and it’s easy to see why. The grasses and stalks that cover the fields are golden brown, and the trees that line them are rich in oranges and yellows. And—of no small importance—there are no bugs. Bugs are one reason you don’t want to come in the heat of summer. Another is that there are no mowed swaths through the fields, so hiking is difficult. The terrain is flat and without points of special note. The enjoyment here is walking, watching for wildlife, and soaking up the sounds and smells of rural central Kentucky

While Anglin Falls is what most serious hikers might consider a short walk, no one will deny the beauty of the area.Best seen in Spring (late April to mid May) Anglin falls is an easy walk with a few very short and mild climbs broken apart by several shallow streams, a thick blanket of wild flowers, a canopy of dizzyingly high trees as well as several miniature falls scattered along the path.
At the end you’ll find Anglin Falls itself, a 75 foot drop surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful rock. Just to the right of the falls is a small path that leads up behind the falls for a stunning view of the valley.
If you’re looking for an easy hike, a beautiful photo op or just a nice scene to add to memory, Anglin Falls is a Berea Feature that shouldn’t be missed.

Raven Run is a unique, 734-acre nature sanctuary dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the Kentucky River Palisades and early Kentucky history. Part of the property was acquired with funds from the Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund. Over 10 miles of hiking trails provide access to streams, meadows and woodlands characteristic of the area. Numerous 19th century remnants of early settlers, as well as over 600 species of plants, allow visitors to become acquainted with and appreciate the natural world. Raven Run also accommodates over 200 species of birds throughout the year.

The Kentucky River Blueway Trail is a 42 mile stretch of river that makes up Jessamine County's southern border running from Valley View to Brooklyn. It's a cooperative effort of the Jessamine County Fiscal Court, along with adjacent counties Mercer, Garrard, and Madison.
The aim of the trail is to provide greater recognition of the many attributes of the Kentucky River basin and to promote tourism and recreation in the area. The Kentucky River and its tributaries are known for excellent fishing, bird watching, hiking, wildflowers and rich historical sites such as Camp Nelson, Valley View, and High Bridge.

Sheltowee Trace is a 282- mile trail spanning the length of the Daniel Boone National Forest and offering unparalleled opportuni­ties for outdoor recreation. Open to hiking its entire length, and by sections for horesback riding and mountain biking, the Trace passes through beautiful, rugged and remote landscapes as well as by unique geological and cultural features.
The Sheltowee Trace is a National Recreation Trail and is named after Daniel Boone, who was given the name “Sheltowee” by Chief Blackfish when he was adopted into the Shawnee tribe. Sheltowee translates to “Big Turtle”, so a white turtle symbol has been used to mark the trail. Some sections of the trail follow or pass near historic trails that would have been familiar to Boone, such as the Wilderness Road and the Warrior’s Path, and many creeks and other landmarks crossed by the trail retain the names bestowed upon them by Boone and other early explorers of Kentucky. Waterfalls, arches, panoramic ridge-top views.

It has taken nature millions of years to form the natural sandstone arch from which this park takes its name. Located adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest, near the Red River Gorge Geological Area, the bridge spans 78 feet and is 65 feet high.
At Natural Bridge, each season has a unique charm. Hikers are drawn to this rugged, scenic area of high stone cliffs and stone arches, but tenderfoots can also enjoy the scenic, ridge-top views from the park’s sky lift. Hemlock Lodge is nestled in the mountainside, overlooking a pool complex and Hoedown Island.

The book Hiking the Red, A Complete Trail Guide To Kentucky's Red River Gorge made it a point to describe the habitat and the diverse species of trees that one is likely to encounter at the Red. According to the authors, the species of trees found in the Daniel Boone National Forest includes beech, sugar maples, white pines, hemlock, several types of oak, and hickory. These trees provide habitat for an estimated 67 different species of reptiles and amphibians, 46 species of mammals, and 100 species of birds. Furthermore, the habitat of the DBNF includes endangered species: the Indiana Bat, the Virginia big-eared bat, the red-cockaded woodpecker, and White-haired Goldenrod (p. 14).

Imagine a wall of water falling 60 feet into a boulder-strewn gorge, a whispering mist that kisses the face and a magical moonbow visible on a clear night under a full moon. Known as the "Niagara of the South," the 125-foot wide curtain of water is dramatic day or night. But it's only at night during a full moon that you can see the moonbow, a phenomenon not found anywhere else in the Western Hemisphere!
The area is a natural choice for water-sports enthusiasts, offering white-water rafting and canoeing among other water activities. A professional outfitter is just 5 miles east of the resort.
As spectacular as the setting that surrounds it, the historic Dupont Lodge, built of massive hemlock beams and knotty pine, offers a spectacular view of the Cumberland River Valley. It's the perfect retreat after a day of hiking, rafting, swimming or horseback riding.

Horses

Scenic One Hour Trail Rides
We offer miles of scenic and fun trails
through woods and creeks. With
views of an old rustic cabin, pre-civil
war cemetery, and crystal clear water
creek with beautiful palisades.

“The Kentucky Horse Park: Epicenter of equestrian life, sports and business!”
It’s true; the Kentucky Horse Park is recognized around the world as the epicenter of equestrian life, sports and business. Yet, as proud as I am of our 1,200 acres, the world-class tourist and competition facility that we have developed, our equine office park and the international-level equestrian events that take place here, to find the real epicenter we have to look deeper.
The true epicenter is not something for which human beings can take even a morsel of credit, because it isn’t man-made. The Kentucky Horse Park is the epicenter of equestrian life, sports and business because this is where the heart of the horse finds its earthly counterpart in the people whose hearts beat in rhythm with his. This is the place where the essence of that remarkable relationship between man and horse is appreciated and honored in everything that we do.

A National Historic Landmark, Keeneland’s beautifully landscaped grounds are open to the public every day. Fans and horsemen alike are welcome to enjoy its spectacular racing, attend one of its annual horse sales, or simply visit the grounds and celebrate Keeneland’s timeless beauty

It was just 10 years since Abraham Lincoln had fallen to an assasin's bullet. General Ulysses S. Grant was president of the United States. J.P. McGrath's Aristides had won the first Kentucky Derby a few months earlier. Custer had yet to meet his demise at the Little Big Horn. And reconstruction of the south was all but complete following the Civil War.
The date was Tuesday, September 28, 1875, and it was the inaugural opening day of the Great Fall Trots at The Red Mile, sponsored by the newly reorganized Kentucky Trotting Horse Breeders Association.

This trip begins on Muddy Creek Road South and runs north through the Central KY Wildlife Management Area. Continuing on North Muddy Creek Road, it joins Crooksville Road at the back of the Bluegrass Army Depot. Much wildlife is seen, especially in the evening. Ending on US 421, the route turns south. At Dreyfus Road the route goes east to complete the circle by rejoining Muddy Creek Road South.

When you come in to Mike's, you deserve and will receive the best attention I can give. Customers in the store are my most important asset and the most important part of my job. I want to provide each person with the best service possible and ensure that you find the best piece of equipment to fill your particular needs. My hope is that every customer feels happy and satisfied with their purchase. For me, gear is not merchandise it is a passion. I want you to share that passion.

Bourbon Tour

The distillery itself is the oldest and smallest working bourbon distillery and a National Historic Landmark. Between its rich history and the Craft Bourbon distilled there today, it has quite a story to tell. The best way to hear it is to visit for yourself.

Come visit the most award-winning distillery in the world - Buffalo Trace Distillery. We proudly hold the title of the oldest continually operating distillery in America, remaining operational even during Prohibition - for "medicinal" purposes. A trio to Buffalo Trace offers visitors a taste of history, heritage and of course, fine Kentucky Bourbon. While taking the tour you will experience a century old aging warehouse, the hand-bottling of premium bourbons, a free sample of Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and lots of southern hospitality - all on the house!

It began when a group of long time friends, playing poker, tossed around the idea of starting a small batch distillery in Lexington, a city rich in distilling heritage. Two of the friends went all-in, establishing their new company in the barreling house of an old Lexington bourbon distillery...

At Alltech’s Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company — better known as Kentucky Ale™ — in downtown Lexington, we have been brewing award-winning beers since 2000. Our Triple Crown of Beers includes Kentucky Ale™, Kentucky Light™, and the renowned Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale™. We began distilling several years later, and have since developed a line of spirits including Bluegrass Sundown™, Pearse Lyons Reserve™, and our newest beverage, Town Branch™ bourbon

Winery Tour

Acres of Land Winery is located on a 400 acre family farm purchased by Russell & Willie Mae Land in the 1940's. The farm's main crop of burley tobacco sustained the growth of the farm for over 50 years. With the decline of the burley tobacco quota and the death of Russell Land in 1998, Lowell & Katherine began to diversify into the wine industry. The agritainment business became Acres of Land Winery.
In 2000, Acres of Land planted their first vineyard consisting of 1.5 acres. The planting consisted of the Chambourcin, Vignoles, Mars & Reliance grape varietals. As of today, 8 acres of vineyards exists, with the expectation of more vineyeards being planted in the future. Along with the regional vines of Chambourcin, & Vignoles vinerifa vines such as Cabernet Sauvigon and Chardonnay are grown.

Witness the entire winemaking process from vine to bottle at Talon Winery's Lexington, Kentucky location. Take a stroll through Talon's lush five acre vineyard, then shop for unique gifts and Kentucky Proud foods in the gift shop. Visitors are invited to taste wine in Talon's historical tasting house and to participate in a self-guided tour created by our winemaker, featuring Talon's winemaking and bottling process.

From its inception the restaurant at Jean Farris has embraced our families’ history in agriculture, and, our passion for fine cuisine. With us, wine is best when sharing a table with good friends and good food.
Here on the estate we grow our own culinary herbs including twenty varieties of heirloom tomatoes, a wide assortment of fresh vegetables and numerous succulent fruits. With these our Executive Chef begins, reflecting and pondering the perfect combination.
The result: an ideal pairing that truly showcases the wines, foods and passion of Jean Farris.

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Hickman Creek Valley, Jessamine County, Kentucky, our estate is settled just a few miles from America’s first commercial vineyard. Kentucky’s soil produces excellent wine grapes when varietals that thrive in our terrain are chosen for planting. Our estate focuses on Vidal Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chancellor, Cabernet Franc and Norton.
The first vintage of Chrisman Mill wine was produced in 1999. Since then, we have expanded our wine menu to include nine amazing wines, including our new sparkling wine, Venete, plus Honey Mead and Blackberry wine.

In 1798, Kentucky was the site of America's first commercial vineyard planted by the winemaker for the Marquis de Lafeyette. By the late 1800's, Kentucky was the third largest grape and wine producer in the United States. Then came Prohibition which hit the Kentucky wine industry hard just like it did in many other states. Many of the vineyards then in Kentucky were either uprooted and converted to cash crops or they were abandoned. Today of course the story is much different. There are many Kentucky wineries where visitors can enjoy wine tours and tastings. And Elk Creek Vineyards is leading the region for Kentucky vineyards and Kentucky wine. We're proud to be the largest winery in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Elk Creek Vineyards is nestled among the rolling hills of Kentucky in Owenton, KY. We established Elk Creek Vineyards in 2003 believing that the only way to make great wines is to intimately know what grows best on Kentucky soil. Like those who came before us more than 200 years ago, we are making the finest wine Kentucky soil has to offer. Now, you can purchase our Kentucky wine here on our website or by visiting our winery.

Worth Stopping

This village of authentic cabins was brought to Rockcastle County in hopes of preserving the Appalachian heritage. The cabins exhibit artifacts dating from the 1700's to the 1940's. As you stroll through the village you will find many displays telling the story of the pioneer woman, blacksmith, broom maker, woodwright, general store and even a DVD presentation highlighting early pioneer days and life in Appalachia. The gift shop is filled with reasonably priced hand made crafts from local artisans. Open year round. Hours vary seasonally.

Nestled along the banks of the Rockcastle River and surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest is one of Kentucky's best kept secrets, The Rockcastle River Trading Company. It is owned by one of its own native sons Jon Carloftis who many know as the ingenious rooftop garden designer of New York City and his gracious mother, Lucille. While some might call this unique enterprise a shoppe, it is in truth much more.
The Rockcastle River Trading Company is located in the countryside on a rolling plot of 50 acres that is in actuality the lands of the Carloftis family homestead. It may be best to begin with a few quotes from Southern Living magazine. "The Rockcastle River Trading Company is definitely worth the stop" for any traveler visiting the state of Kentucky." Look for this great stop off the interstate (I-75)... Rockcastle River Trading Company invites you to take a break to stop and wonder its gorgeous grounds... Its beautifully landscaped gardens are a touch of Eden."